A FED-UP pensioner has launched a one-woman campaign against antisocial behaviour around Purley, including barring misbehaving youths from getting on the bus.
Sandie Sullivan, 73, a member of Croftleigh Residents' Association who regularly reports bus disturbances to the Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT), says the ever-increasing problem stems from a lack of youth facilities in the area.
"It's been going on for a while now and it's certain kids that cause all the trouble," she said.
"The other day the bus stopped outside Tesco in Purley and passengers got on. Then, as it was pulling away, these kids pressed the emergency button for the doors to open again, just because they thought it was funny.
"This kind of thing happens all the time and it's not safe – someone will get hurt soon. Anyone on the pavement could get knocked over; a child, a person in a wheelchair or an old person.
"I know who they are and said 'No, you are not coming on' and told the bus driver to stop them."
Ms Sullivan, along with neighbours such as Denis Clarke, believe the council failed to create enough facilities when more flats were built near Costcutter.
"The problem is, these kids have nothing to do and they're bored so they make trouble," said Mr Clarke.
"We don't have a youth centre or really anywhere for kids to go."
"Loads of houses and flats were built around 20 years ago and they're all families so the place is much busier. It's no surprise we are having problems."
Sergeant Nick Tooher, from the Kenley SNT, said: "We're aware of a small number of children causing a nuisance and behaving antisocially around the Old Lodge Lane area and on some local buses.
"We do carry out patrols in the area and will speak to anyone behaving inappropriately.
"We've identified a handful of children we believe are largely responsible for this, and we're seeking to engage with them and their parents to improve their behaviour; this could lead to acceptable behaviour agreements.
A Croydon Council spokesman said: "The council recognises the need for community facilities as part of housing developments.
"Croydon is one of the first councils to introduce a community infrastructure levy, which requires developers to invest in community projects such as leisure facilities, parks and green spaces.
"Should the police decide to issue what is called an acceptable behaviour agreement, they would make a referral to the council."
